Taree Students To Cast A Line During Reconciliatio

[Ken A]

Students in the Taree area will be given the chance to swap fishing yarns and learn about responsible angling during a special clinic for Aboriginal students children today.

Primary Industries Minister Ian Macdonald is attending the clinic, which will see 25 children aged 8-12 years from the Taree Christian Community College spend the morning casting a line from the banks of the Manning River.

The state’s only Aboriginal MP, Member for Canterbury Linda Burney, will also be attending the clinic as part of National Reconciliation Week.

Mr Macdonald said fishing played an important role in indigenous culture and today’s clinic was a great opportunity for younger children to carry on that tradition.

“It’s also great to have such a positive role model as Linda Burney in attendance to share her own experiences of Aboriginal heritage,” he said.

“The students will learn how to identify different types of fish, how to clean the fish for eating, and all about rigging, baiting and casting.

“Every child at the clinic will receive a rod, reel and fishing clinic T-shirt, with other prizes on offer during the day.”

The Department of Primary Industries will also donate fishing gear worth $2200 to the school after today’s event, including the tackle handed out at the clinic.

Mr Macdonald said the clinic was part of a statewide program, run by the DPI and the Recreational Fishing Trust, to teach children and other groups responsible fishing practices.

“This will help ensure that recreational fishing remains a sustainable and enjoyable pastime in the future,” he said.

Mr Macdonald will also meet with Aboriginal commercial fishers while in Taree today.

“The DPI is committed to addressing any Aboriginal fishing issues and this is a good chance to hear first-hand any concerns or suggestions indigenous fishers may have,” he said.

The clinic will be held near the Manning River Rowing Club, on River Street, between 10am and 2pm.

Media contact: Lisa Miller 0410 663 723